Phase 1 Early Orthodontics Gilbert
An Exciting First Step Towards a Straighter Smile
Here at Larson Family Orthodontics, we recommend that you bring in your child for their initial consultation by the age of seven. Even though this might seem a little early for orthodontic treatment, the bottom line is that the majority of complex bite and alignment issues can be prevented with the assistance of Phase 1 Early Orthodontics in Gilbert. It’s a surefire way to foster a better environment for when the permanent teeth enter the picture, and we’re ready to help!
Why Choose Larson Family Orthodontics for Phase 1 Early Orthodontics?
- Friendly and Compassionate Orthodontic Staff
- Convenient Dental Office Location for Busy Families
- First & Only All-Digital Orthodontic Office in Gilbert
When Do I Need to Bring My Child in for an Orthodontics Evaluation?
The majority of kids actually do not need an early phase of orthodontics. There are a few specific issues (airway, crossbites, trauma, etc) that need to be corrected early. Still, the majority of the time most other issues can wait until later when we do comprehensive braces when the child is ready. We believe in a conservative approach to early phase 1 orthodontics and only recommend doing it when it's necessary. We’re happy to provide early-phase treatment for aesthetic reasons, but we’ll always clearly explain what is necessary versus what is purely aesthetic. Not only does this save you money but it's easier on kids too.
How Does Phase 1 Treatment Work?
Phase 1 Early Orthodontics, also sometimes referred to as interceptive orthodontics, typically occurs between ages six to nine when children have entered the mixed dentition phase. This simply means that they’ve begun losing their baby teeth and their adult ones are well on their way! It’s generally considered the ideal time to begin detecting and addressing disturbances having to do with jaw growth or dental development since things are already moving and shifting around.
A short phase of orthodontics can be utilized to correct all kinds of issues; for example, we might use a treatment to create space within the mouth that allows us to guide all of the permanent teeth into proper alignment as they emerge. Phase 1 Early Orthodontics typically lasts around nine to twelve months, though it varies case by case. Some common solutions include things like headgear, limited braces, space maintainers, and specialized retainers.
What Happens During Phase 2?
Phase 2 Orthodontics generally begins between ages 8-10, and it can last anywhere from twelve to upwards of thirty months depending on the severity of the issues being targeted. During this phase, teeth are often aligned with braces, specialized retainers, expansion appliances, or whatever else might be needed in order to ensure maximum function, stability, and of course, beauty.
Bite issues can also be effectively corrected during this process, which are known to have a significant bearing on oral wellness later in life. If patients are missing teeth, they can also be replaced during this time, and teeth that have failed to properly erupt may be brought down into the dental arch or removed altogether. Though it might seem like a lengthy commitment, especially following Phase 1, Phase 2 Orthodontics can truly finish the job and set your child up for a lifetime of healthy and happy smiling!